Reyna joins New York City FC

Recently, City, in partnership with Major League Baseball club the New York Yankees, announced they would be entering the new club into the Major League Soccer competition.

And former US captain Reyna has been handed the reins of the expansion team, named as the inaugural director of football.

Effectively New York City FC's first employee, Reyna said it was a 'privilege' to work for a club that represented his home town.

"It is really a dream," he said. "There are so many soccer fans here and being able to be responsible for the building of a club, not just a team, with the support of Man City and the Yankees - I can't wait to get started.

"Today is a great day but I can't wait to get to work.

"Being so close to home and to be part of the professional game is fantastic. MLS has grown so much, even since I finished.

"Just to be a part of that growth and representing New York city is a privilege and an honour."

Reyna, who will stand down from his role as youth technical director with US Soccer to take up the position, said the process of joining the new club was a long plan in fruition.

"At the beginning of this year they made me aware they were in negotiations and were interested in doing this," he said.

"I had a meal with them and an introduction to their organisation.

"It's changed quite a bit since I was over there. They are really nice people and it was an easy sell to me."

And the former Premier League star said there would be a strong chance for American audiences to see some of City's stars grace the MLS.

"There's going to be clear opportunities where we can work together and bring players across," Reyna added.